The microbial composition of compost varies depending on the decomposition process. The growth and activity of each species depend on the availability of nutrients and organic matter. în fiecare fază de dezvoltare.
Here are just a few of the many species that inhabit compost.
Actinomycetes
Actinomycetes are bacteria that resemble fungi and appear as gray, thread-like networks spreading throughout the compost mass. These microorganisms are among the first to break down fibrous plant materials such as cellulose, chitin, and lignin. They can decompose tree bark and paper, making them softer and more accessible for other organisms to consume. Actinomycetes are also important in the production of streptomycin, a widely used antibiotic.
Bacteria
The most abundant and smallest organisms in compost, bacteria play a vital role in the decomposition of plant and animal materials. They release essential nutrients and serve as a food source for other organisms, including earthworms.
Fungi and Mycorrhizae – fungi
The most beneficial fungi are saprophytic species, which feed on organic matter and release humus. They are capable of breaking down lignin and cellulose and contribute to the formation of nutrients that serve as food for earthworms. Mycorrhizal fungi are of major importance in agriculture, as they form symbiotic relationships with plants. It has been scientifically demonstrated that earthworms contribute to the multiplication of mycorrhizal spores. This makes vermicompost extremely valuable in agriculture.
Nematodes
Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in compost and play a role in breaking down organic substances and residual microorganisms. In doing so, they also become a food source for other organisms.
Protozoa
They feed on bacteria and serve as an important food source for earthworms, especially Eisenia fetida. Their population is influenced by temperature and food availability, and they have the ability to form cysts and re-emerge when conditions become favorable.
Rotifers
Rotifers are microscopic organisms also known as “wheel animals,” as they create vortex-like currents in water and soil by rapidly moving their tiny cilia. This movement directs organic particles and other microorganisms toward their mouth. They also have the ability to form cysts under unfavorable conditions.
..Macroscopic Residents
Black Ants They must be eliminated through aeration using a fork for several consecutive days..
Red Ants-Some worm species are protected by red ants, as these ants feed on predators of earthworms. The mucus layer on the worms’ surface prevents ants from attacking them. Earthworms also help ants maintain their nests, as they feed on fungi that cause decay in ant colonies. Although this relationship may appear beneficial, in most cases red ants attack earthworms and other beneficial insects. Maintaining moisture balance, creating an oil barrier around compost containers, or using a 50% boric acid + 50% sugar mixture placed along ant paths can help keep them away from compost.
Bathroom moth flies
Small moth flies (approx. 4 mm), with larvae reaching about 5 mm. They are considered beneficial for composting, as the larvae help break down organic matter.
Centipedes
They are generally carnivorous and nocturnal. They do not cause significant damage when present in small numbers.
Colembola
They are about 2 mm long and have pincers at the tail end. They can reach up to 100,000 per cubic meter of soil and are highly beneficial in composting, as they accelerate the decomposition process.
Fruit flies
They are beneficial, but their population must be controlled.
Multipedes
They are beneficial for composting as they structure and aerate the compost through their mechanical movement, making it more favorable for bacterial activity.
Tetranychus urticae (spider mites)
Beneficial for composting – they feed on fungi, spores, nematodes, collembola, other mites, and small insects.
Fungus gnats and sciarid flies
They resemble mosquitoes but are not harmful. Sciarid flies are small black flies, about 3 mm in size, with long antennae and legs. Their larvae are transparent, reaching up to 5 mm, and feed on fungi. They are not harmful to compost.
Potworms (Enchytraeidae)
Small white worms – sometimes confused with nematodes – ranging from 1 to 50 mm in length. They are beneficial in composting, feeding on plant fragments, fungi, and silica particles, thereby contributing to the decomposition process.
Pseudoscorpions
They are about 4 mm in size and, unlike true scorpions, they do not have a tail. They feed on other organisms such as plant lice, collembola, and small insects.
Snails and slugs
They help decompose plant material, and their secretions help stabilize soil moisture, contributing to improved soil structure. The enzymes produced by snails break down cellulose, thereby creating food for microbes. There are seven species that are harmful to plants, which can proliferate when compost is spread on the soil. It is advisable that compost does not contain snails and slugs.
Spiders
Good to keep away from compost.
Woodlice
There are 37 species, including 5 common ones. They feed on dead vegetation, wood, fungi, and algae, and find their ideal habitat in compost. They are highly beneficial, providing pre-digested food for microbes. Their presence in compost is recommended.